10th-11th century AD. Vikings were highly skilled metallurgists, and as a result, breaking metal had supernatural significance for them. Breaking ringjarn (iron rings) as shown on the Larbro Stone in Gotland Sweden, was thought to destroy the spirits of enemies. Similarly, Viking weapons and accouterments were broken for burial with their owners. This is the broken end of a fine Viking warrior’s bronze bracelet. It is about 3/8” x ¾” of thin section with near flat face decorated in seven raised lineal bands. It is lightly textured from burial. It has been professionally refurbished with a pure silver overlay and mounted to an 18” Sterling silver neck chain.
